UK-based KP Snacks has revealed it has been hit by a cyber-attack which could hit supplies of popular snacks such as Hula Hoops, KP Nuts, Butterkist popcorn and Nik Naks.
KP Snacks said it became aware last Friday that it was the victim of a ransomware attack, where hackers gain access to a network and hold data hostage.
“As soon as we became aware of the incident, we enacted our cybersecurity response plan and engaged a leading forensic information technology firm and legal counsel to assist us in our investigation,” KP Snacks said.
The British firm is well known for its crisps, or potato chips, brands that also include McCoy’s, Tyrrell’s and POM-BEAR.
“Our internal IT teams continue to work with third-party experts to assess the situation,” KP Snacks said.
KP Snacks, owned by German’s Intersnack, said it was continuing to keep staff, customers, and suppliers informed of any developments and apologized for the disruption caused. KP Snacks has warned retailers of delivery delays.
In November, the country suffered a shortage of crisps after an IT system upgrade at Walkers, the country’s biggest producer, disrupted supplies. In December, Spar wholesaler James Hall was the victim of a cyber-attack, forcing the temporary closure of hundreds of stores.
